Customs clearance of used cars brings in 97 million euros - Rules for import and foreign license plates, penalties for violations
Customs revenues from the import of used vehicles reached around 9.7 billion lek last year, or around 97 million euros, confirming the weight of this sector in budget revenues as well as the high demand for vehicles coming from abroad, where South Korea now dominates as the country of origin.
Official data from the General Directorate of Customs also show that in the first months of the year there was an increase, with revenues reaching 8 million euros in January, while in February they reached 9 million euros.
In parallel with the increase in revenue, the customs administration also announces the obligations and rules that citizens must follow when importing and clearing vehicles.
Regarding customs clearance procedures, individuals must register their personal ID in the ASYCUDA World system, a process that is carried out at the customs administration by presenting their identity card. Meanwhile, vehicles with foreign license plates can be used temporarily in Albania for up to 6 months within a 12-month period, but without the right to use for commercial purposes or change ownership during this time.
According to the instructions, the main obligation remains the payment of VAT on the customs value of the vehicle, which includes the purchase price and related costs.
The authorities underline that compliance with deadlines and procedures is mandatory, while violations can be punished with financial penalties of up to 75% of unpaid obligations.
According to data from the General Directorate of Road Transport Services, during 2026, 84,204 vehicles were imported, registered for the first time in Albania, of which over 21,000 were from South Korea, followed by Germany, Italy and China. While in the first two months of the year, 14,201 vehicles were registered for the first time.
Developments show a combination of increased revenues and strengthened administrative control, aiming at market formalization and increased fiscal discipline in the used vehicle sector.
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